Ile Saint-Marguerite
Explore the untouched island just a 15 minute boat ride from Cannes
A 15 minute boat ride from Cannes brings you to the small island of St. Marguerite. With dense woodland covering most of the island there is plenty of shade.
The village of St. Marguerite consists of roughly twenty buildings, mostly homes to the local fishermen. The historic Fort Royal is now a youth hostel and a Museum of the Sea, featuring many recovered items from Roman and Saracen shipwrecks. Visitors of the Fort can take a tour of the prison cells which once were occupied by the Man in the Iron Mask.
What to see
Sights in Cannes
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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
Situated within the Royal Fort on Ile Sainte-Marguerite in the Bay of Cannes, this museum is a place not only of learning but also of rich history.
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Fort Royal Museum, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
In 1617, the Duke of Guise gave Jean de Bellon the task of building a fort intended to block sea access to Cannes. Constructed between 1624 and 1627 on the site of remains that dated back to Roman antiquity, at the time it was nothing more than a simple fortified house.
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Abbaye de Lerins Monastery (Lerins Abbey), Ile Saint-Honorat
Located on the island of Saint Honorat, the abbey is still occupied by monks. It's possible to receive a guided tour and re-charge your spiritual batteries.
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St Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church
Set within the affluent residential area of Quartier de la Californie, is the pretty Church of Saint Michael the Archangel.
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Promenade de la Croisette
The Promenade de la Croisette is the true heart of Cannes. Under the shade of pine and palm trees, this boardwalk stretches for over three kilometres. A great place to soak up the sun and the sea breeze while you check out the best luxury shops and hotels.
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La Malmaison
La Malmaison used to be a part of the original 19th century 'grand dame' hotel - the Grand Hotel - which was demolished and then rebuilt in 1963.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Cannes
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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Awarded one Michelin star, La Palme d'Or invites you to discover chef Jean Imbert’s culinary artistry in an unforgettable setting.
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La Table du Chateau Restaurant
The Château de la Tour feels like a private residence, offering an intimate and refined experience. With Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2000, Chef Didier Anies, at the helm, the restaurant is a true destination for elegance, creativity and exceptional cuisine - unique in Cannes.
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Fouquet's Restaurant
Le Fouquet's at the Hôtel Le Majestic combines Parisian charm with culinary excellence, led by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. A timeless spot for culture and cuisine lovers in Cannes.
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La Plage 45 Beach Club
Just a short walk through the hotel garden and you can sink your feet into the soft white sand of the Grand Hotel's private beach, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the water.
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Plage du Festival Beach Club
La Plage du Festival offers a refreshing gourmet experience in a chic and relaxed atmosphere. With its beachside setting, stunning views, and vibrant cocktails, it’s a must-visit spot in Cannes.
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Carlton Riviera Restaurant
Riviera brings the flavours of the Mediterranean to life with fresh market produce and the catch of the day, served in a stylish brasserie setting overlooking the sea.
What to do
Things To Do in Cannes
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Club des Dauphins Swimming School
Based in the public beach of Bijou Plage in Cannes, this swimming school on the Côte d'Azur has been in operation since 1962 and is led by Thierry, a fully qualified skiing, swimming and fitness instructor.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Cannes, Antibes & Saint-Paul-de-Vence Tour, from Cannes
From big cities to medieval towns, see all the stunning Riviera has to offer.
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Taste of Cannes Vespa Tour
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
Directions
From the ferry port climb the steps to reach the wide path along the coast to the west towards the salt pond Bateguier. Follow the path around the pond to the south heading towards Pointe du Dragon. The path then follows the southern edge of the island in a easterly direction. Reaching the forest house (a public institution that ensures the protection of the woodland on the island) you head north, inland, on a small path. After a left turn, follow the path lined with Eucalyptus that heads back towards the interior of the island. Heading towards the Fort Royal you soon reach its high walls. The path then skirts around the Fort and then rejoins the coastal path before returning to the ferry port and the start of the walk.
